Fergie:" It was a fantastic goal"

A powerful strike from youngster Danny Welbeck gave defending champions Manchester United a 1-0 victory over Wolves in the third round of the Carling Cup and manager Sir Alex Ferguson has vowed to continue to give his fringe players a chance to impress in the competition.

GettyImages

Goalscorer Danny Welbeck - set up by Owen - models his celebration on Usain Bolt

United won the Carling Cup last season with a squad based on youngsters and Ferguson, who has a history of blooding players in the knock-out tournament, sees no reason why the Red Devils should abandon that philosophy this term.

"It does excite me that I can give the young lads a chance in this competition," said Ferguson. "It is the only thing we can do. It is good for them to get the experience of playing at Old Trafford. It is a good breeding ground for young players."

England Under-21 star Welbeck was the main beneficiary on Wednesday night, netting a stylish winner midway through the second half after exchanging passes with Michael Owen.

The born and bred Mancunian featured in last year's final, as well as the FA Cup semi-final defeat to Everton and is clearly making a positive impression on the Old Trafford hierarchy.

"It was a fantastic goal. The passing and the finish were top quality," said Ferguson. "The angle Michael Owen created made it easy for him."

Ferguson is now dreaming of a home tie with Peterborough in the next round of the cup, which would mean a match-up with son Darren, a former United player.

---------espn------------